UPM BioVerno is a fuel that reduces both CO2 and tailpipe emissions, such as nitrogen oxides and fine particles, that harm the local environment. The fuel has been tested in engine and vehicle tests on numerous makes and models in several acclaimed Finnish and international research facilities.
The chemical structure of wood-based UPM BioVerno renewable diesel is similar to regular diesel as it is a pure hydrocarbon. Its performance in car engines rivals the best commercial diesels, and it has good storage stability properties.
VTT carried out long term tests to study the stability of UPM BioVerno and to evaluate the effects of the fuel on passenger car engines and fuel systems. Various plastic, rubber and metal parts typically found in the fuel systems of diesel-powered passenger cars were exposed to UPM BioVerno for 12 months. The comparison also included other fuels.
The stability of UPM BioVerno was good at room temperature and the colour of the fuel remained bright, without the use of preservatives. The screening tests did not reveal any bacteria, moulds or yeasts in the fuel.
No significant changes were identified in the materials of the engines or fuel systems. Additionally, UPM BioVerno did not cause any corrosion of metal parts. Corrosion could not be detected even when the metal parts exposed to the fuel were examined using a scanning electron microscope.